In this lecture, we shall delve into the fundamental derivation of the Boltzmann equation and its applications in cosmology. The Boltzmann equation has a wide range of applications in statistical mechanics, and it also finds relevance in the computation of the abundance of dark matter produced via thermal mechanisms. After the derivation, we shall see where the appeal of the well-known WIMP (Weakly Interacting Massive Particle) scenario comes from, and comment the alternatives.
This event is part of the master lecture series organized by the Section for Theoretical Physics.